PORTLAND, Maine (NEWS CENTER) -- People taking a ferry from Portland out to the islands will notice come big changes.

The renovations started last September, and 4500 square feet were added to the space. Since the terminal was built more than 25 years ago, the number of passengers served has more than doubled, with about one million people taking ferries last year. Casco Bay Lines General Manager Hank Berg says the new design will help people see the ferries, and enjoy their time in the terminal.

"It's an open area, it's light, and there's a lot more room," Berg said. "It's really become a destination, not just a transit stop."

This is just phase one of the renovation project. There will be more upgrades over the next two years, paid for by a $2.5 million federal grant.

The Portland terminal travels to six different islands in Casco Bay. Depending on the season, it runs from 5 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.